What is a cough assistant?

A cough assist device (mechanical insufflator-exsufflator, “MIE”) is a medical device that can compress air and move it at increased pressure. The device can be used to produce an “artificial” cough. The patient is fitted with a mask by a relative or therapist, which is connected to the cough assistant.

At the touch of a button, the device triggers a rapid airflow that passes through the mask into the bronchi and lungs (corresponds to a deep inhalation). After a few moments, the air is extracted again at high speed (equivalent to exhaling). The secretions in the bronchial tubes are mobilized and expelled, just like a cough.